EasyMarkets vs IG for China Traders 2026: Offshore Broker Comparison

For China traders, trading costs differ significantly between the two brokers. IG offers variable spreads starting from 0.6 pips on EUR/USD for standard accounts, with a commission-based Razor account for tighter spreads on indices and forex. EasyMarkets uses fixed spreads, typically 1.0–2.0 pips on major pairs, which provides predictability but is less competitive for high-volume traders. IG's spread advantage becomes more pronounced with larger trade sizes—common among active China traders—leading to lower overall costs. However, EasyMarkets' fixed structure can be beneficial during volatile market events when variable spreads may widen. Currency conversion fees also apply for deposits not in USD; both brokers handle CNY via bank transfers or USDT without additional exchange markups.

IG supports MetaTrader 4 (MT4), its proprietary web platform, and ProRealTime for advanced charting, giving China traders flexibility. MT4 is especially popular among local users for automated trading and custom indicators. EasyMarkets offers a modern web-based platform and MT4 but lacks a dedicated desktop app. IG's platform suite includes real-time level 2 data and advanced risk management tools, which are vital for offshore traders managing multi-currency portfolios. Both platforms are available in Chinese language, though IG provides more comprehensive local language support in its mobile app and help center. Connection stability is strong for both, with servers located near Asia-Pacific for low latency.

IG operates as a market maker with high liquidity access, achieving execution speeds under 50 ms on major forex pairs. EasyMarkets uses an STP model with similar latency but includes a unique 'deal cancellation' feature that allows traders to reverse a losing trade within a few hours (for a fee). For China traders focused on scalping or high-frequency trading, IG's faster execution and deeper liquidity are preferable. EasyMarkets' execution is reliable but may have occasional slippage during news events. Both brokers offer negative balance protection, which is critical for volatile markets.

IG is regulated by the UK Financial Conduct Authority (FCA), Australian Securities and Investments Commission (ASIC), and other tier-1 authorities, offering Chinese traders high levels of client fund protection and dispute resolution. EasyMarkets is regulated by the Cyprus Securities and Exchange Commission (CySEC) and ASIC (for its Australian entity). For China offshore traders, IG's FCA regulation is often viewed as more robust due to strict capital adequacy requirements and the UK's Financial Ombudsman Service. While CySEC provides basic protection, IG's regulatory oversight offers stronger guarantees for fund segregation. Note that the CSRC does not cover these brokers, so traders should rely on the offshore regulators' credibility. IG's longer track record (founded 1974) further reassures Chinese clients.

Depositing and withdrawing funds is a key concern for China traders due to capital controls. Both EasyMarkets and IG support USDT (Tether) deposits directly via the blockchain, enabling instant transfers without bank involvement. International bank transfers in USD or EUR are also accepted, but may take 1–3 business days and incur intermediary fees. EasyMarkets requires a minimum deposit of $100, while IG sets $250. Withdrawals are processed similarly: USDT withdrawals are fast (same day), whereas bank transfers take 1–2 days. Neither broker charges internal fees, but third-party bank charges may apply. USDT is particularly popular among Chinese users for avoiding currency conversion and bank scrutiny. Both brokers also accept credit/debit cards for smaller deposits, though card withdrawals may have extra fees.

Muslim traders in China can open swap-free (Islamic) accounts with both EasyMarkets and IG. These accounts eliminate overnight interest charges on positions held past market close, complying with Sharia law. EasyMarkets automatically converts eligible accounts to Islamic upon request without additional documentation. IG requires a manual application and may take up to 48 hours to approve. Both brokers offer Islamic accounts across standard and CFD instruments, with no extra fees. However, IG's swap-free account applies to a wider range of products, including commodities and indices, while EasyMarkets focuses on forex and major CFDs. China traders looking for flexibility in asset classes may prefer IG's broader Islamic offering.

IG offers 24/7 customer support via live chat, phone, and email, with a dedicated Chinese-language team available during Asia-Pacific hours. EasyMarkets provides 24/5 support Monday to Friday, which may be inconvenient for China traders in different time zones. Both have comprehensive FAQ sections. IG's response times are faster (under 1 minute for live chat), while EasyMarkets' average is 2–3 minutes. For urgent issues such as withdrawal delays, IG's round-the-clock availability gives it a clear edge for Chinese users trading outside standard hours.